Eggplant with tomatoes and cheese baked in the oven

Delicious eggplants with tomatoes and cheese baked in the oven

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, sometimes it’s good to return to the simple roots of cooking, where fresh ingredients and authentic flavors come together in a perfect dance. Eggplants with tomatoes and cheese baked in the oven are an excellent choice for those looking to explore a healthy and flavorful ovo-lacto-vegetarian recipe. This recipe is not just a simple combination of ingredients but an explosion of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2 regular servings or 4 small servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 1 large juicy tomato
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 slices of Hochland cheese (or another type of cheese that melts well)
- 80 g grated cheese
- Olive oil, for frying and greasing
- Breadcrumbs, for coating
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the eggplant: Start by peeling the eggplants if you prefer a milder taste. Then cut them into slices about 1 cm thick. This step is essential as thicker slices will cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors.

2. Salting the eggplant: Place the eggplant slices in a bowl and sprinkle salt over them. Let them sit for 30 minutes. This process will help remove the bitter juice, making the eggplants tastier and more enjoyable.

3. Draining the eggplant: After 30 minutes, drain the eggplants and rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, dry them well with a paper towel.

4. Frying the eggplant: In a non-stick pan, add a few drops of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices on both sides until they become lightly golden (about 3-4 minutes on each side). This step will add a wonderful flavor and pleasant texture to the dish.

5. Preparing the baking dish: Take a heat-resistant dish and grease it with olive oil. Coat it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking and to add a crunchy note to the final dish.

6. Arranging the ingredients: Start arranging the eggplant slices in the dish, followed by slices of tomato. The crushed garlic (or grated) is evenly sprinkled over the tomatoes, providing an intense and aromatic flavor. Then add the slices of Hochland cheese, and repeat the layers of eggplant, tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheese on top to achieve a delicious crust.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese turns golden and flavor bubbles form on the surface.

8. Serving: You can serve this dish warm, alongside a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt, which will add a creamy and refreshing note. It is just as delicious and simple, without any additions.

Useful tips:
- Eggplants: Choose fresh eggplants with smooth, shiny skin. Avoid eggplants with spots or those that feel soft to the touch.
- Tomatoes: A well-ripened tomato will add a more intense taste and pronounced aroma to the dish.
- Cheese: Instead of Hochland cheese, you can use mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor.
- Variations: You can add olives or herbs (such as basil or oregano) for extra flavor. You can also replace the grated cheese with parmesan for a more pronounced taste.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in fiber due to the eggplants and tomatoes, while the cheese provides a source of calcium and protein. Olive oil is a healthy fat, rich in antioxidants, contributing to heart health. It’s an excellent choice for a light and satisfying meal!

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen eggplants? It’s preferable to use fresh eggplants, as freezing can alter the texture.
2. How can I make the recipe spicier? Add chopped chili peppers or chili flakes between the layers of vegetables.
3. What is the best side dish for this recipe? A fresh salad would be a perfect accompaniment, bringing a refreshing contrast.

These eggplants with tomatoes and cheese baked in the oven are not just a simple recipe, but also a way to bring family and friends together around the table. The dish offers a culinary experience full of flavor that will surely be appreciated. So, embrace this dish and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal!